Environmental Science (Chapter 1, Module 1) – Enviromental Science for the AP
Course, Third Edition, by Andrew Friedland and Rick Relyea.
What is Environmental Science?
● Environmental science is a field of study that examines the complex interactions
between human systems and the natural world.
● It explores the relationships between living (biotic) and nonliving (abiotic)
components within ecosystems—specific locations on Earth.
● While rooted in scientific inquiry and analysis, environmental science differs from
environmentalism, which is a social and political movement advocating for
environmental protection through lobbying, activism, and education.
● Environmental science is part of the broader field of environmental studies, which
also includes disciplines like:
○ Environmental policy
○ Economics
○ Literature
○ Ethics
● This interdisciplinary approach provides a comprehensive understanding of
environmental challenges and helps develop effective solutions.
Human Impact on Natural Systems
● Human activities significantly affect natural systems:
○ Transformation of landscapes into urban, suburban, and agricultural zones.
○ Alterations to the chemical composition of air, water, and soil.
● These changes can be:
○ Intentional (e.g., fertilizers to enhance crop growth).
○ Unintentional (e.g., pollution).
Fracking: A Closer Look
● Fracking (hydraulic fracturing) is a method used to extract oil and gas from deep
underground.
○ It involves injecting high-pressure fluids into rock formations, creating
fractures that release trapped resources.
● This technique has sparked significant debate due to its potential environmental
and health impacts.
Course, Third Edition, by Andrew Friedland and Rick Relyea.
What is Environmental Science?
● Environmental science is a field of study that examines the complex interactions
between human systems and the natural world.
● It explores the relationships between living (biotic) and nonliving (abiotic)
components within ecosystems—specific locations on Earth.
● While rooted in scientific inquiry and analysis, environmental science differs from
environmentalism, which is a social and political movement advocating for
environmental protection through lobbying, activism, and education.
● Environmental science is part of the broader field of environmental studies, which
also includes disciplines like:
○ Environmental policy
○ Economics
○ Literature
○ Ethics
● This interdisciplinary approach provides a comprehensive understanding of
environmental challenges and helps develop effective solutions.
Human Impact on Natural Systems
● Human activities significantly affect natural systems:
○ Transformation of landscapes into urban, suburban, and agricultural zones.
○ Alterations to the chemical composition of air, water, and soil.
● These changes can be:
○ Intentional (e.g., fertilizers to enhance crop growth).
○ Unintentional (e.g., pollution).
Fracking: A Closer Look
● Fracking (hydraulic fracturing) is a method used to extract oil and gas from deep
underground.
○ It involves injecting high-pressure fluids into rock formations, creating
fractures that release trapped resources.
● This technique has sparked significant debate due to its potential environmental
and health impacts.
